ROCKVILLE, Md. - The Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA) and its Mechanical Service Contractors of America (MSCA) subsidiary have revised their Electrical Safety Guidelines for Mechanical Service Safety Training Kit to reflect recent changes to the NFPA 70E National Electrical Code. Production of the revised kit, which educates mechanical service contractors about the protective measures required while working with electricity, was underwritten by CNA.

“The safety of our clients and customers is of paramount concern to us at CNA, and as such it is our pleasure to support the safety programs and initiatives that are important to MCAA and the industry at large,” said Mike Farrington, CNA underwriting director – construction. “By working closely with MCAA, we’ve been able to develop risk control tools and resources specifically designed to meet the ever-changing needs of mechanical contractors.”

The Electrical Safety Guidelines for Mechanical Service Safety Training Kit is designed to help mechanical service contractors educate workers to mitigate the risks associated with exposure to energized electrical conductors or circuit parts. The kit includes a DVD that reviews the electrical arc flash and shock hazards faced by those who perform mechanical service on HVAC units pushing 480 volts or less. The DVD also describes safe work practices and procedures and reviews the use of appropriate personal protective equipment. The kit also includes a set of 20 pocket guides that reinforce key points, a system for documenting training and instructions for accessing a 20-question, multiple-choice test on the topic.

“MCAA’s Safety Excellence Initiative has been key in educating mechanical construction, service, and plumbing contractors and helping them keep pace with changing codes like NFPA 70E,” said Tom Skaggs, chairman of MCAA’s Safety and Health Committee and vice president – safety for the Murphy Company. “I am very pleased that CNA continues to support our efforts.”

MCAA and MSCA began updating materials related to NFPA 70E last year, with the revision of the Model NFPA 70E – 2009 Electrical Safety Program for Service. The model program simplifies the process of developing a company-specific electrical safety program.

MSCA members and local affiliated associations will receive a free copy of the Electrical Safety Guidelines for Mechanical Service Safety Training Kit in their regular membership mailing, and get free online access to the Model NFPA 70E – 2009 Electrical Safety Program for Service. Non-members can order the training kit through the online store at www.mcaa.org/store.

Publication date:08/30/2010